How To Start Improving Your Mental Health This Year

You probably already know that your mental health is just as important as your physical, but what you may not know is where to start in your journey to improve your mental health. Those attempting to improve their physical health in the new year know to start with regular exercise and a good diet, but the steps aren’t quite so clear for boosting mental health. Here are tangible actions to take when you embark on your journey to improve your mental wellbeing this year.

Seek Professional Help

Just as you would see a doctor when your body is injured or ill, you should see a doctor when your mind is unwell. There are many forms of professional help and the type that is right for you will depend on your exact needs.

When you see a doctor for your mental health, they will likely recommend medication, therapy, or a combination of both. These options are both essential in getting your brain chemistry in a healthy spot and in having someone with whom you can openly talk about your mental health.

Bring Greenery Into Your Home

As simple as it seems, bringing some of the outdoors inside can actually work to improve your overall happiness. Join the 30% of households that have one or more houseplants by buying a leafy friend at your local home garden center. Your plant can be any size and any variety, as long as it gives you a feeling of happiness. Talk to your local garden center about great indoor plants that you can enjoy for a long time.

While the evidence isn’t conclusive, studies suggest that plants can have a calming effect. In working environments especially, plants can act as a form of stress relief. Whether its the simple act of caring for another organism or having a living presence in the room, having a houseplant could be your key to improving your mental health this year.

Cut Out Sources Of Stress

Our lives are filled with responsibilities and obligations, creating an endless number of potential stressors. Wherever it is possible in your life, try to eliminate the sources of those stressors. For example, think about shopping: when a business suffers a breach in security, 40% of consumers state that they would end doing business with that company or brand. Just as these wise consumers make their financial safety a top priority in their lives, you are allowed to prioritize your mental health when things go awry.

You can prioritize your health in many different ways. If the mess in your kitchen has been causing you anxiety, tackle it while taking frequent five-minute breaks, or ask someone to do it with you. If you notice that your mental health suffers whenever you’re around a certain friend or colleague, find a way to cut down on the time you spend with them. You can always make changes in your life in the interest of your mental health.

There is no great secret to improving your mental health. Rather, there are many small things and a few major things that you can do to start your journey. Remember the same tricks won’t work for everyone, but that shouldn’t stop you from finding plenty of helpful strategies that work for you.